Soccer-playing seminarian connects with Monmouth kids

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Life is a ball for a former Bloomington man on the soccer field. But it's not what you think.

Fundamentals on the field also offer lessons about life.

This is a workout for the body on a steamy summer morning.

"You have to get low," said Chase Hilgenbrinck, addressing a group of kids on the Monmouth College soccer fields. "You have to move your feet. If you don't move your feet, you're dead."

It's also a workout for the spirit.

"In our daily lives, we have to move our feet," he continued. "We have to be thinking at all times. We have to be attentive."

This is the Immaculate Conception Spiritual Soccer Camp. Youngsters are learning about keeping sports in perspective with Hilgenbrinck.

"I realize that I have to practice what I preach," he said. "I have to practice perseverance. I have to sacrifice just like everyone else."

That's because Hilgenbrinck made the unusual transition from professional soccer player to seminary student. After five years of competing all over the globe, he's now two years away from becoming a priest.

"I want to be an example for these kids in their lives," he said. "An example like I wish I could have had on the soccer field."

It's actually not too hard to find a bond between faith and futbol. This soccer-playing seminarian finds a way to connect with kids.